The President of Iceland visited Snowmass during the annual AREDAY Summit earlier this summer to discuss how his country was able to make an economic turnaround with renewable energy and to showcase how important other, bigger economies are in improving the planet.
Olafur Grimsson came to the valley to discuss how renewable energy can help more than just the climate. Iceland has taken full advantage of clean energy to not only improve the environment, but also its own economy. The country is 100 percent renewable and is one of the most stable in the world.
“Moving from fossil fuels, oil, and coal, over to clean energy is good business,” said Grimsson. “My country was among the poorest countries in Europe when we started this transformation 40 to 50 years ago. We are now in the top seats in every in every international league table in terms of economic prosperity, economic success, and social well-being.”
President Grimsson said it’s critical for other strong economies like the U.S. and China to make a change. The clean energy movement needs these economies to participate and increase overall awareness. Even though more countries are moving towards renewable energy, the bigger markets will determine the ultimate outcome. The U.S.’s economy, as well as, scientific research will determine the fate of the planet.
“That’s why the agreement between President Obama and President Xi of China prior to the Paris conference was of such historic importance,” said Grimsson. “So without active participation by the United States, countries like mine and almost every other country on the planet will not be able on its own to deal with this challenge.”
Grimsson will be stepping down as the president this August. He has served five terms and has been the president since 1996. He has been at the forefront of implementing renewable energy throughout the country. Iceland takes full advantage of its geothermal capabilities.
As they believe that it is the most consistent energy source and has proven to have the best track record. The country has four geothermal power plants that can provide heat, cooling, and electricity to houses and businesses.
“Whereas the sun doesn’t always shine and the wind doesn’t always blow, the heat under the ground is always there,” said Grimsson.
